E D I TO R’S L E T T E R
September? When did that happen? I blinked and the next thing I knew summer was gone.
Did it happen that fast for you? The kids started school, the weather cooled a bit and now the Kansas State Fair awaits. Summer gardens, once brimming with an abundance of tomatoes, cucumbers and herbs, retreat in anticipation of fall. It’s a signal to slow things down and savor the specialness of September. This month’s issue includes the Fall Travel section, which boasts a Nichole Hensley and her daughter, Macey, shared their advenmyriad of fall events scheduled across tures of gathering cattle the week we interviewed Macey and the state. And don’t forget to check her Grandma Marsha in Council Grove. out the additional events listed in our Melvin Jeardoe, district operations manager for regular feature, Around Kansas. With school back in session, history lessons Rolling Hills Electric Cooperative that serves the north central part of Kansas. Melvin played no doubt will include discussion of the U.S. a key role in bringing the World Horseshoe presidents, something Macey Hensley from Tournament back to Kansas, demonstrating Council Grove could teach. She’s the engaghow electric cooperative employees work to ing 5-year-old whose appearances on a daytime talk show showcasing her knowledge of the U.S. enrich the lives of others in their communities, presidents have captured the hearts of many. I even when they are off-the-clock. KCL had the great pleasure of talking with Macey, her mom, Nichole, and her Grandma Marsha. Macey’s story begins on page 14. Chances are if you enjoyed family picnics this summer, you tried your hand at pitching VICKI ESTES, EDITOR horseshoes. On page 16, we introduce you to
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KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
SEPTEMBER 2015
(ISSN 0091-9586) SEPTEMBER 2015 VOL. 65, NO. 9 © KANSAS ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES, INC., 2015 WWW.KEC.COOP
Bruce Graham
Chief Executive Officer
Doug Shepherd
Vice President, Management Consulting
Shana Read
Director of Communications
Vicki Estes Editor
SEPTEMBER
Bob Jennings
Manager of Publishing Services
Carrie Kimberlin
Communications Specialist Officers Kansas Electric Cooperatives, Inc.
Ralph Phillips President
Kathleen O’Brien Vice President
Keith McNickle Secretary
Patrick Riley Treasurer
Cooperatives You receive Kansas C ountry Living as a communications service of these electric cooperatives: Alfalfa, Cherokee, OK Bluestem, Wamego Brown-Atchison, Horton Butler, El Dorado CMS, Meade Caney Valley, Cedar Vale DS&O, Solomon Flint Hills, Council Grove Kaw Valley, Topeka Lane-Scott, Dighton LJEC, McLouth Lyon-Coffey, Burlington Ninnescah, Pratt Pioneer, Ulysses Prairie Land, Norton Radiant, Fredonia Rolling Hills, Mankato Sedgwick County, Cheney Sumner-Cowley, Wellington Tri-County, Hooker, OK Twin Valley, Altamont Victory, Dodge City Western, WaKeeney Wheatland, Scott City Kansas Country Living (ISSN 0091-9586) is published monthly for $10 per year (tax included) by Kansas Electric Cooperatives, Inc., P.O. Box 4267, Topeka, KS 66604. Periodicals postage paid at Topeka, KS and additional entry offices. For members of Kansas rural electric systems, subscription cost is $5.88 per year. This cost is part of your electric service billing. Editorial offices: P.O. Box 4267, Topeka, KS 66604-0267. Phone 785-478-4554. Fax 785-478-4852.
12 | State Fair Bound 4-H youth ready to compete at fair
“LIKE” Kansas Country Living on Facebook to view monthly extras and submit your story ideas.
14| Macey’s Gift
Kansas kindergartner wows with presidential knowledge
16| Shoes of Steel
2 | Editor’s Letter
World Horseshoe Tournament returns to Kansas
4 | Around Kansas
6 | Commentary
Goodwill beyond the meter
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8 | Guest Commentary State Fair fun
10 | Cut Your Utility Bills Home heat loss and gain
32 | Cook’s Library
Résumés lack full story
ON THE COVER Macey Hensley, Council Grove, takes a daytime talk show by storm.
Postmaster Send address changes to Kansas Country Living, P.O. Box 4267, Topeka, KS 66604-0267.
Kansas Country Living assumes no responsibility for unsolicited material. Submissions must be accompanied by self-addressed envelopes with sufficient postage to be returned. The publication does not guarantee publication of material received and reserves the right to edit any material published.
September already? Community events galore
Address Changes Please report any change in address to your local electric cooperative.
Advertisers Contact National Country Market: 512-441-5200, or see www. nationalcountrymarket.com. Acceptance of advertising by Kansas Country Living does not imply endorsement by the publisher or Kansas’ electric cooperatives of the product or services advertised.
D E PA RT M E N T S
P H OTO BY HEIDI TRAUTMAN
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SEPTEMBER 2015
KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
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T H I N G S TO D O
Clyde’s Watermelon Festival in its 116th Year
SEPT. 4-7 | Enjoy a variety of activities throughout Clyde. There’s a FREE WATERMELON FEED and a largest watermelon contest with the winning watermelon traveling in the parade. Contact Jessica Brown at 785-4463331 or jbrown@pebank.net.
Caldwell Border Queen Cruisers Present Car Show
The Dodge City Dollies invite you to their ‘Still Young at Heart’
SEPT. 12 |
DOLL SHOW AND SALE
from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at The First Church of God Fellowship Hall in Dodge City. Contact Barbara Halbgewachs at 620-2273950 for information.
Discover your inner child at the Dodge City Dollies doll show and sale Saturday, Sept. 12 at The First Church of God Fellowship Hall in Dodge City.
SEPT. 5 | This CAR SHOW takes place at Caldwell City Park with registration beginning at 8 a.m., drawings held throughout the day, including a grand prize drawing and a poker run. Visit www.borderqueencruisers.com.
ENCAMPMENT , old time western music, gravel dash through town and a flea market. Call 785-268-0588.
‘Nothin But a Good Time’ Theme of Post Rock Festival
Ice Cream Social Funds Historic Schoolhouse
SEPT. 5 | The Lincoln Post Rock Festival offers bed races, a parade, HORSESHOE TOURNAMENT , cardboard boat races, live band and a beer garden. Call 785524-4934 for more information.
It’s Fiesta Time in Garden City
Celebrate the Mexican heritage that helps shape Garden City’s unique culture at this ANNUAL COMMUNITY EVENT . For information, contact Angelica Castillo Chappel at 620-290-6264 or 620-260-1435, or email acastill@gpcu.org.
SEPT. 11-12 |
Get Up Close with Alpacas
SEPT. 12 | Visitors will have the opportunity to meet alpacas and their owners at the ALPACA MARKET from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Hurlburt Arena in Manhattan’s CiCo Park. Call 785955-0009 or 785-361-4853 or email anvilpaca@ruraltel.net to learn more.
Wild West Day in Downtown Waterville
SEPT. 12 | The day begins with a pancake breakfast from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m., followed by rail rides, model train exhibit, PLAINSMEN AND TRAPPERS
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‘STILL YOUNG AT HEART’ DOLL SHOW, SALE
KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
SEPTEMBER 2015
Enjoy delicious ice cream while helping to maintain the Deep Creek Schoolhouse. THIS FUNDRAISER is from 4 to 6 p.m. at the schoolhouse located seven miles north of 1-70 on Deep Creek Rd., Exit 316. Call Sharon Eckhoff at 785-410-8902. SEPT. 13 |
Buffalo Dunes to Host Garden City Charity Classic
Experience this nationally acclaimed municipal golf course and HIT THE LINKS with 144 of the best pro women golfers. Call Cole Wasinger at 620-276-1210. SEPT. 14-20 |
Harper Public Library Hosts ‘Harvest Homes Potluck’
This PROGRAM BY ROY BIRD explores the food heritage of one of the most important seasons in farm family life: feeding the harvest crews. Program begins at 6 p.m.; bring your favorite harvest-time dish to share. SEPT. 16 |
Fallen Racers Memorial Race Features Micro Sprints
The annual event at Garden City Airport Raceway honors fallen SEPT. 18-19 |
racers and provides a multi-state event that includes dwarf cars and JUNIOR MICRO SPRINTS . Contact Ellen Mangan at 620-275-6816 or email emangan@cox.net.
Join the Treasure Hunt Across Kansas in its 10th Year
SEPT. 18-20 | Shop, eat and laugh your way along U.S. Highway 36 during this THREE-DAY TREASURE HUNT through 32-plus towns. Make new friends; discover new treasures. Visit www. ushwy36.com for more information.
FNB Fall Fest Offers Entertainment, Cook-off
SEPT. 19 | This Wellington event includes
a CAR AND TRUCK SHOW on the courthouse square, barbecue cook-off and tasting, a poker walk and door prizes. Visit www.fnbwashington.com or call Ryan or Deb at 785-325-2221.
Hahn Brothers Supercross Shootout
SEPT. 19 | Great Bend Expo Complex is
having the third annual MOTO-CROSS EVENT that features the Hahn brothers.
Call 620-792-2401 for information.
Great Bend Hosts Women’s Expo at Event Center
SEPT. 22 | Join your gal pals at the Event Center from 3:30 to 7 p.m. Admission is free, but bring non-perishable food
items for the local food bank. DOOR PRIZES and vendors to peruse. Visit gbtribune.com/womensexpo.
How the Humanities Combat Rural Decline SEPT. 24 |
Joan Northern will present
“THE HUMANITIES COMBAT RURAL DECLINE” and share how one rural
Kansas town strengthened its community by organizing events and hosting cultural opportunities. Program begins at 1 p.m. at the Harper Public Library.
Food, Fireworks at Conway Springs Fall Festival
SEPT. 25-27 | Free barbecue, fireworks and fun abound at this THREE-DAY EVENT filled with entertainment, including a carnival and parade. For information, visit cscity@havilandtelco.com or call 620-456-2345.
Wildflower Weekend features Guest Speakers, Excursions
SEPT. 25-27 | The Kansas Native Plant Society plans this WEEKEND IN MANHATTAN for anyone who loves native plants and enjoys sharing this passion with others. Visit www.ksnps. org or email@ksnps.org.
Concordia to Host Annual Fall Fest and Music Fest A FULL DAY OF CELEBRATION for the entire family with a car show, petting zoo, and native Kansas talent performing for the evening’s street dance. Call 785-243-4290. SEPT. 26 |
Ghost Tour Scheduled at Garden of Eden
Catch a Ghost Tours of Kansas will host a GHOST TOUR at the Garden of Eden in Lucas. Visit www. catchaghosttoursofkansas.com or call 785-425-7350 for more information.
SEPT. 26 |
Valley Falls VFW Sponsors Car, Truck, Tractor, Bike Show
Held in conjunction with Grasshopper Falls Day, the proceeds from this CAR SHOW will provide funding for veteran and community support activities. Show runs from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., but craft vendors will be set up all day. Contact Ron Herring at 785-865-6215. SEPT. 26 |
Celebrate Oktoberfest in Dodge City
Dodge City Knights of Columbus celebrates Oktoberfest at their complex on Highway 50 Bypass beginning at 11 a.m. POLKA MUSIC and country music with Buckner Creek. Enjoy German foods. Call 620-255-4000 or 620-255-5834. SEPT. 26 |
a chance to win a lap quilt. Enjoy vendors and refreshments. Call 620356-2402 for more information.
Buddy Walk Begins at Clyde City Park
The North Central Kansas Down Syndrome Society hosts this ANNUAL FUNDRAISING WALK to bring awareness and provide resources to individuals with Down Syndrome and their families. Visit www.nckdss. org, email nckdssbuddywalk@yahoo. com or call 785-275-1777. KCL
OCT. 4 |
Send items for your free listing in Around Kansas to Kansas Country Living, P.O. Box 4267, Topeka, KS 66604 by the fifth of the month prior to publication. Or email vestes@kec.org. Please include a contact phone number.
Visit Alta Vista for Old Settler’s Day
Bring the family for the festivities at this Ag Heritage Park Celebration, including traditional blue grass music and games galore. Visit www. agheritagepark. com.
SEPT. 26 |
Stitches in Time Quilts
OCT. 3 | This QUILT SHOW at the
Grant County Civic Center in Ulysses runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and includes
For more statewide events, see our annual fall travel section beginning on page 20. SEPTEMBER 2015
KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
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C O M M E N TA RY
Co-op Connections Extend Beyond the Meter
BY B R U C E G R A H A M
Two pounds, ten ounces. That’s the regu-
Bruce Graham
They understand it is their primary mission to deliver reliable and affordable electric service.
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lation weight of a competitive horseshoe. If you also know that ringers count for three points, leaners two points and that the pitching distance ranges from 27 to 37 feet, then you are probably aware that Topeka hosted the World Horseshoe Tournament for 12 days in July. It was a remarkable sight. Held at the Expocentre, 1,404 contestants converged on the Capital City with visions of splitting about $180,000 in prize money. It wasn’t the money though that prompted folks from across the United States, Canada, and even Norway to populate 60 pits that ran almost simultaneously. The draw was the opportunity to renew friendships built through a love for competition and the clang of iron on iron. Focused and nononsense when going head-to-head, participants were swapping stories and laughs during any downtime. Sure, last year the Kansas City Royals were in the World Series, but Topeka and Kansas don’t host too many world championships. So this was a pretty big deal. Big enough that ESPN showed up to broadcast live one day. In addition, the event was projected to have an estimated $2 million boost for the city’s hotels, restaurants and other businesses. So how did Topeka win the pitch to host the World Horseshoe Tournament? In part through the efforts of an electric cooperative employee named Melvin Jeardoe. Melvin is a regional director of the Kansas Horseshoe Pitchers Association. He is also District Operations Manager for Rolling Hills Electric Cooperative. He has a prodigious pitching family with his wife and grandson all competing–as well as working to bring the championships back to Kansas. Yes, back to Kansas. The inaugural championship was held in Bronson, KS, in 1909. That year, a Kansan, Frank Jackson a farmer near Blue Mound, bested a field of 34 contestants. It took some effort for Melvin Jeardoe to realize his dream of a return to the Sunflower State. The Kansas bid for the 2007 championships was a
KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
SEPTEMBER 2015
leaner, coming up five votes short. Subsequent championships were held in locations such as New York state, which spurred the local hopefuls to restate their message that a Midwest location would attract better numbers. It seemed to work with more participants in 2015 and many wearing shirts proclaiming their roots in the region. Melvin was a real leader in the successful bid and announced the victory in a press conference on Aug. 12, 2013. Then the work really started. Organization meetings were held regularly to find generous sponsors, volunteers, organize publicity, and work through hundreds of other big and small decisions. Days before the event, Melvin was part of the team unloading a semi-trailer full of pits, mats, barricades, tarps, scoring tables and other pitching paraphernalia needed for a world class event. His commitment continued through the 12 days of competition logging days that would begin at dawn and end well after the last match around 10 p.m. His commitment to this event made a big economic difference for Topeka and for Kansas– and Melvin has the same commitment to his local community. When something needs to get done in the Rolling Hills service territory, folks know who to call. The great thing about electric cooperatives is that same commitment to community is shared by hundreds of other cooperative employees and directors across the state. They understand it is their primary mission to deliver reliable and affordable electric service. They do their jobs efficiently and without much notice or fanfare. But there are many connections between electric cooperatives and the members that extend beyond the meter. Electric cooperatives are anchors in their communities. In Kansas, 29 distribution cooperatives serve rural areas in 103 of 105 counties. That spreads our resources widely, but it doesn’t diminish our community spirit and dedication to the vitality and quality of life in rural Kansas. KCL BRUCE GRAHAM is Chief Executive Officer of Kansas Electric Cooperatives (KEC), Inc., Topeka.
G U E S T TA L K
Fair Offers Fun with a Side of Fried
BY C O N N I E S C H M I T T
Every September is a special kind of Kansas time. Like a harvest moon shining
Connie Schmitt
As you explore the fair grounds, shop for that special T-shirt and then conduct your own quality taste test on the official Fried-NJoy tour.
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on a crop of anticipation; young and old alike are eager to welcome this Sunflower showcase. The wheat is in the bin, fall crops flourishing, home gardening completed, kids headed back to school, and the largest annual affair in Kansas soon approaching–the Kansas State Fair! Ten days of fair, food, and fun always begins the Friday following Labor Day weekend. And so beginning Friday, Sept. 11, 2015, Hutchinson will be the place to be in the heartland of Kansas. The aroma of the appropriate fair theme, “Fried-N-Joy,” will be wafting across the 280-acre fairgrounds. The free entertainment near Gate 1 at Gottschalk Park will feature three shows a day of Bruno’s Amazing Tigers, including a tightrope walking tiger sure to entertain. Don’t miss the Budweiser Clydesdales as these magnificent animals will be near Gate 9 on the first Friday and Saturday only. As you explore the fairgrounds, shop for that special T-shirt and then conduct your own quality taste test on the official Fried-N-Joy tour. Start with a fair favorite, Pronto Pups, and continue your diet-busting quest with chicken lollipops, fried cheesecake, pumpkin spice funnel cakes, bacon-wrapped pork chops, Kansas-raised buffalo burgers, moink balls, Oreo churros, and deep fried peanut butter and jelly to name a few! Upon filling your tummy, you will want to walk it off a bit before riding the Go Karts, Zipline over Lake Talbott, the Kansas State Fair Railroad train, Ye Ol’ Mill (celebrating 100 years) or trying your hand at Zombie Paintball. Enjoy a bird’s-eye view over the fairgrounds on the Sky Ride and visit the North American Midway Rides and Carnival games, which are back with “guaranteed” fun too! Unique competitions will pique your interest as you discover that the Kansas State Fair is indeed a place for all to learn and participate. “Fastest Needles in the West” tests your knitting
KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
SEPTEMBER 2015
prowess at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 16 in the Domestic Arts Building. Contestants must bring their knitting needles and enough yarn to complete and knit an adult sized stocking cap. Judging will be based on speed and quality. On the last Saturday, Sept. 19, a Fried-NJoy Bacon contest will be the smell of the town! Prepare your recipe in which bacon is the headliner. The test kitchen is available but space is limited. As with all contests, recipes are required. See special contest rules. Judges will consider originality, taste and presentation. Also, on that final Saturday, at the east end of the Oz Gallery breezeway, there will be a Lego® Bricks building contest. Stick around that evening for a “walk-in” outdoor showing of The Lego® Movie at 8 p.m. at Nex-tech Wireless Free Stage at Lake Talbott. Whether it’s the Little Tikes Toddler Driving School, the Kansas State Fair Pedal Pull, Mutton Bustin’ Championships, Kansas State Fair Spelling Bee, or Kansas Kids Got Talent Show, there is plenty for our young people to do! The High Voltage Line Safety Demonstration in Ad Astra Pavilion, sponsored by Kansas Electric Cooperatives, will show you how electricity works, how to tell an energized line even though you can’t tell visually, what protective gear the linemen use, what happens if a person comes in contact with an energized line, and most importantly, how to stay safe. Let’s thank our veterans and military by inviting them to the Bring a Veteran to Brunch event on Wednesday, Sept. 16. The Woodcarving Auction at 4 p.m. on the last Saturday continues to be a fair favorite. Proceeds help beautify the historical fairgrounds. Enormous vegetables, odd artifacts, a State Fair Museum exhibit, homemade crafts, agriculture items–and the infamous butter sculpture– proves there is something for everyone. Visit www.kansasstatefair.com and plan your trip this September! KCL is the Sponsorship/Special Events Director for the Kansas State Fair.
CONNIE SCHMITT
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C U T YO U R U T I L I T Y B I L L S
Understanding Home Heat Loss and Heat Gain BY J A M E S D U L L E Y
Dear Jim: I plan to make
Dear Sheri: It never
hurts to be as informed as possible about the projects you are considering. Using A solid privacy vinyl fence with a decorative top section creates an efficient windbreak to reduce convective heat loss from a home. just a few of the proper terms and displaying some are conduction, convection, radiation and air knowledge can keep a contractor from attemptinfiltration (leakage). Conduction is probably the ing anything unnecessary or unethical. Keep in most common type. This is how the handle on a mind, you will not know if the improvements cup gets hot from the coffee, or how heat flows helped until next year’s utility bills arrive. through the wood studs inside the walls. There are many do-it-yourself books about effiThe amount of heat lost or gained from ciency improvements, which would be a great conduction is primarily a function of the temstarting point. Each home is unique though, so perature difference (also called ^T) between the what some books recommend in general may indoor and outdoor surfaces of an outside wall. not provide the best payback for your specific If the outdoor temperature drops so that the living space. temperature difference is twice as large, twice as The most common misconception about a much heat will be lost through the wall. This is home is that heat rises. Heat does not actually why setting the thermostat lower during winter rise. Instead, heat, which is a form of energy, flows equally in all directions. What does rise is warm air because it is less dense than cool air. This is important to keep in mind when determining where, how much and what types of insulation to use for various areas of your home. The basic types of heat flow–out of your home during winter or into it during summer–
When planting a windbreak, make sure you plant trees a proper distance from overhead utility lines. Contact your electric cooperative for more information. 10
KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
SEPTEMBER 2015
JAMES DULLEY
QUICK TIP
JAMES DULLEY
a few efficiency improvements to my home and hire a contractor for the job. I would like a better understanding of how a home loses and gains heat so that I am not persuaded into unnecessary projects. Can you help? – Sheri W.
Keep tight-fitting fireplace doors closed when burning a fire. When the fire is out, close the chimney damper and the doors to block room air loss.
or higher during summer saves energy. rests on the foundation. If it is not insulated, The insulation level of a home also affects which is not uncommon, much heat can be lost heat loss. If the insulation R-value is doubled, the by conduction moving out of it. If this is the amount of heat loss is cut in half. case, I recommend insulating the joint. While the Convection refers to heat flow from a fluid, insulation is being installed, caulk where the joist such as air or water, moving over a surface. rests on the top of the foundation. This spot is The heat lost by convection will also double if often uneven and leaks air. the temperature difference doubles, but it will Installing shades and closing them at night increase even more as the air blows faster. This can block the direct radiant heat flow to the is what causes a wind chill factor during winter cold night sky or from the hot afternoon sun. months. This is much less expensive than installing new Radiation is heat flow, which moves through windows. Have low-emissivity, reflective foil space or air. This is how the sun warms us. Just stapled under the roof rafters. This dramatically as it warms you, your home also loses radiant reduces the radiant heat flow downward on hot heat to the outdoors, especially on a clear cold summer afternoons. KCL night. Radiant heat flow is different in that when Send inquiries to James Dulley, Kansas Country Living, the temperature difference is doubled, the heat 6906 Royalgreen Dr., Cincinnati, OH 45244 or visit www. flow increases by 16 times. On a clear night, dulley.com. outer space is minus 460 degrees Fahrenheit, so the heat loss increases dramatically. You may have noticed how chilly you feel standing by a window at night. On a summer afternoon, a black shingle roof can easily reach 160 degrees Fahrenheit, which radiates heat down through the insulation and the ceiling. Now that you have this background knowledge, make a list of problem areas, such as a persistently chilly room. If the room is located on the northwest side of the home, convection losses and air infiltration from winter winds could be a factor. Erecting some type of windbreak–a privacy fence or even planting evergreen trees –can help. Plant a windbreak of evergreen trees along the north side of the house to reduce Since heat moves down as well as convective heat loss and air infiltration. Also, low evergreen shrubs planted along the up, check the lumber band joist, which foundation will help. SEPTEMBER 2015
JAMES DULLEY
The most common misconception about a home is that heat rises.
KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
11
State Fair
BOUND State Fairs and 4-H Go Hand in Hand
At the State Fair, youth showcase their accomplishments and leadership acumen in a variety of categories. They are future leaders who will understand the unique challenges facing rural America. Many of these same future leaders are also alumni of the Kansas Youth Tour and Youth Camp programs sponsored by Kansas electric cooperatives. These programs provide educational and leadership opportunities and help improve their interpersonal communication skills. Here we highlight four of these future leaders and wish them luck at the fair.
My family bleeds green, literally! My
dad was a 10-year member and then supported 4-H by being a project leader for various projects, and mom has been a community leader for 24 years. I joined 4-H as a tag-a-long and then became a full-fledged member at the age of seven. My favorite thing to compete in is Photography Judging, which involves looking at classes of four pictures and placing them best to worst. Judging the various classes gives me new ideas for possible shots. The second part Name: Alexis Peck of the Photo Judging comClub: Shields Jayhawks petition is the & ds Foo s: State Fair Entrie 50-question y, ph gra Nutrition, Photo written test. ng dgi Ju y 4-H Photograph This, like any
test, involves some study ahead of time. My favorite thing to do at the fair is to walk around and look at the projects that 4-Hers exhibit especially Photography because there are always Alexis plans to enter this rose photo in AMAZING the 4-H State Fair competition. photos! My favorite fair food is fried pickles! KCL
______________ Club:________________ _____________________ Name:________________ ________________ _____________________ _____________________ State Fair Entries:
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KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
SEPTEMBER 2015
ALEXIS PECK is the daughter of Lane-Scott Electric member Joy Peck, Dighton. She represented her co-op on the 2015 Electric Co-op Youth Tour to Washington, D.C.
Name:____ _________ _________ _________ State Fai _________ r Entrie ____ Clu s: ______ b:_______ _________ _________ _________ __ _
ee Name: Carissa McAf tning Club: Lancaster Ligh
State Fair Entries: phy Arts & Crafts, Photogra
My favorite category is Photography because there are so many beautiful things to capture and they are easily expressed in a simple picture. My preparation for photography is pretty simple. I am always taking pictures, so when I see pictures that I think are really good I save them in one place. For Style Revue, I buy clothes throughout the year and when it comes time for the fair, I decide what I want to wear and match
The State Fair is an
amazing time to explore what other 4-H members have accomName: Ba ilee Ellis plished, and C lu b it’s also a great : Jayhawke rs time to focus State Fair E ntries: on enhancing Photography, Market Goa your showt manship skills. After our County Fair, I fall into a slump where it feels like the fair season is over and that I have all the time in the world to prepare and get myself and my animals prepped and ready for show. After battling with myself, I get back into a routine of walking my animals daily and getting mentally prepared for the fair. I travel to fairs with my parents because they are the ones to help me with what I need and support me through everything. They help me care for my animals and help make sure my animals are getting proper nutrition. I wouldn’t have been able to do any of the things I do without my parents’ help. KCL
Nam e:_ ___ _________ _________ _________ State Fai ______ r Ent rie Clu s: b:_ _________ _________ _________ _________ _________ _________ _________ __ _________ _________ ____
My mom had me join 4-H at a young age because she had been involved when she was younger. She knew it was a great organization and wanted to make sure I was a part of it. I have never actually attended the state fair but my family plans to attend this year. I am always excited to compete with students around the state, to see how my photography fares against the competition, and learn how I can be better in my project. One of the great things about competing in Photography is that most everything is finished
Carissa’s award-winning entry at the Atchison County Fair.
beforehand. Nothing needs to be touched up, edited or fixed. I usually tell people who are not involved in 4-H to join in order to learn important life skills such as public speaking, a sense of community, diligence, how to accept criticism gracefully, and patience. KCL
______________ Club:________________ _____________________ Name:________________ ________________ _____________________ _____________________ State Fair Entries:
CARISSA MCAFEE is the daughter of LJEC members Janet and David McAfee, Valley Falls. She represented her co-op at the 2015 Cooperative Youth Leadership Camp in Steamboat Springs, CO.
is the daughter of Caney Valley members Charles and Linda Ellis, Cedar Vale. She represented her co-op at the 2015 Cooperative Youth Leadership Camp in Steamboat Springs, CO.
BAILEE ELLIS
_____________________ _______ Club:_________ _____________________ __ Name:________________ _____________________ _____________________ _____________________ State Fair Entries:
Emily plans to enter this photo of a lake sunset reflection in the State Fair Photography category.
jewelry to it. I love to walk around the fair and see what the vendors have for sale and eat the good food! My favorite is the cheese curds. KCL ______________ Club:________________ _____________________ _________ _____________________ _____________________
Name:________________
Name: Emily Vaught Club: Kiowa Creek
State Fair Entries: w Photography, Style Revie
_______ State Fair Entries: EMILY VAUGHT is the daughter
of Southern Pioneer members Susan and Brad Vaught, Protection. She represented her co-op at the 2015 Cooperative Youth Leadership Camp in Steamboat Springs, CO.
Bailee captured this photo of her goat and plans to enter it in the Photography category at the State Fair. SEPTEMBER 2015
KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
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Pint-Sized
Ambassador Talk show favorite remains country girl from Council Grove.
If you haven’t heard the name Macey Hensley, you
will in the future, perhaps as a candidate in a presidential debate. She’s a Council Grove 5-year-old whose presidential knowledge and down-to-earth demeanor while appearing on the talk-variety program, the Ellen DeGeneres Show, have delighted audiences nationwide. She’s pure charm bundled with abundant intellect and spunk, all delightfully wrapped in Kansas authenticity. Macey has become an unofficial ambassador, raising awareness of her historic hometown and the homespun appeal of Kansas–and its people. What started as a toddler’s curiosity has blossomed into three appearances on the top-rated show in which she competed against celebrities Luke Bryan and Kevin Spacey in presidential trivia challenges, capturing the hearts of Americans while winning each contest hands down. Her videotaped visits to the White House, where she unintentionally bumped Vice President Joe Biden’s office chair into a table, and to the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library, where she played hide-andseek, captivated the masses. Macey’s celebrity journey began about age 3, when she first learned the names of the presidents pictured on U.S. currency. “It became fun for her because she would then go around to her aunts, uncles, grandmas and grandpas asking, ‘Got any Jacksons for me?’” her grandma, Marsha Hensley, explained. “She was always trying to rake in the twenties!” By age 4, Macey was learning facts about the presidents with the help of bargain-bin flash cards Grandma Marsha purchased. Macey’s parents, Matt and Nichole, would read the flashcards to Macey at her request in lieu of traditional bedtime stories. “And it just took off
Macey demonstrates her “Lincoln Pose” in the outfit given to her by Ellen DeGeneres.
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KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
SEPTEMBER 2015
from there,” Grandma Marsha said. Word of Macey’s fascination with presidential facts soon spread. “The librarians at school and in town would get in any presidential book they could,” Grandma Marsha said. “They always had a new book for Macey and she just soaked up the knowledge.” As a way to remember the chronological order of the U.S. presidents, Macey composed a song, which she performed, dressed in her George Washington costume, for a local 8th grade history class. After her performance, the teachers urged Nichole, who is also a teacher, to send the video to the Ellen Show. The show’s producers took a shine to Macey and invited her to the show in February to coincide with Presidents Day. Self-assured beyond her years, it’s hard to remember Macey is only 5 and on the cusp of learning to read and write. When asked whether she was nervous before her first appearance on the show, Macey shared that it was more nerve-racking for her mom than it was for her. “My mom was definitely on pins and needles!” she exclaimed, but admitted, “I was scared, but not on pins and needles.” Macey’s maturity may make it easy to forget her age, but you won’t forget that she lives in Kansas on a farm with her family, helps with chores, has a new pony named Derby, loves to fish and knows just about everyone in her community. While strolling downtown Council Grove with her grandma, Macey knew the driver of each vehicle passing by, shouting out their names and eagerly waving to make sure they saw her. “Hey, I just saw Richard and Mary Kay,” she yelled enthusiastically. With all the fame and attention, she remains a country girl from
Council Grove who prefers jeans over dresses, cowboy boots to Converse, and plaid before paisley. And, you quickly learn that her family, not fame, continues to be the center of her universe. “Me and my sister (Riley), we usually show each other our muscles,” Macey laughed, when sharing how she likes to spend time with her family. She explained that her family has cattle and horses, that her favorite horse is Derby, and that she treasures the story of her first horseback ride. “When I was a little, little, baby, I rode with my daddy.” Her older brother, Tanner, is her protector and she eagerly shared a story about him. “I was on the hay baler with my brother, and my mom and dad were loading bales on the truck. I told him I wanted to walk back where mom and dad were, and he said, ‘Why don’t you just sit here on the hay baler ‘til they get here.’ When I saw him afterward, he said the reason he didn’t want me to walk back there was because he saw a snakeskin,” Macey exclaimed. When it’s time to gather cattle, Macey is there with the rest of the family to help. “What’s your job,” Nichole asks her daughter. “To sit on the four-wheeler and ride along,” Macey grinned. “Sometimes you help count them too,” her mom replied. Council Grove residents have embraced Macey as their unofficial town ambassador. The Morris County community served by Flint Hills Rural Electric Cooperative, celebrates Washunga Days each summer and this year invited Macey to be the first-ever junior grand marshal for the annual festival. “The people of Council Grove have been very appreciative about how she has promoted the community and Kansas,” Grandma Marsha said. “They
Self-assured beyond her years, it’s hard to remember Macey is only 5 ...
Macey is right at home riding her pony, Derby.
tell Macey that she’s putting Council Grove on the map.” Macey will have at least one more appearance on the Ellen Show to reveal the family’s adventures at Mount Rushmore, but no date has been scheduled. When asked if she would add anyone to the face of Mount Rushmore, Macey quickly reacted. “You can’t do that.” After acknowledging she was right and convincing her the question was for fun, she declared that she would include Zachary Taylor. “He’s my favorite president because he wore blue and that’s my favorite color.” Anyone else she would add to the memorial? “My grandma! Because she helped me get started!” To that Grandma Marsha laughed but didn’t take credit for Macey’s accomplishments. “She has a lot of people who love her and are involved with her. Her other grandparents are just as involved.” White House or not, with the guidance of family, there’s little doubt Macey will remain grounded. The endearing five-year-old who loves strawberry ice cream, Texas toast and Butterfingers, donned comfy jeans and a pair of cowboy boots for a Michigan country club foundation speaking engagement. “That’s what she wears every day. That’s what she wears to school,” Grandma Marsha explained. “That’s who she is and that’s who they want to see.” KCL SEPTEMBER 2015
KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
15
Horseshoein’
Around This wasn’t your average game of horseshoes played at a family picnic. The “clang, clang, clang,” stopped long enough for the national anthems of Canada, Norway and the United States to boom over the loud speakers. Once the music faded and housekeeping announcements concluded, the distinctive “clang, clang, clang” resumed. It was the start of the two-week National Horseshoe Pitchers Association World Tournament held in Topeka in July that attracted an ESPN broadcast crew and more than 1,400 participants, including Melvin Jeardoe, district operations manager for Rolling Hills Electric Cooperative. Melvin served on the 2015 World Horseshoe Tournament Steering Committee that succeeded in bringing the championship back to Kansas after a 105-year drought. He believes Kansas was awarded the bid because of its central location. “The tournament has been to each coast, and we wanted to get it back to the middle of the U.S. to get the numbers up,” Melvin said. “And, this is the highest number of participants they’ve had in nine years.” The quality of clay used on the courts is also a factor, and Melvin has been told by horseshoe pitchers
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KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
Ranked 11th in the world going into around the country that Kansas clay is the best. “A lot of horseshoe pitchthe competition with a 67.40 ringer ers would love to have this clay,” he percentage, Ora Lee pitched her way boasted. “It’s locally acquired blue clay to second place in the Senior Women’s and it’s much cleaner.” Championship. Melvin competes in For Melvin, horseshoe pitchthe Men’s Open Division, with an ing, though competitive, is still a average ringer percentage of 40. family friendly affair, with his wife “She hits the stake a lot more than Ora Lee, and grandson, Bryson, 13, I do,” Melvin chuckled. “It takes a little also pitching at the professional level. warming up for me.” “We always get him (Bryson) in the Melvin fondly remembers pitchsummer for vacations, so he goes to ing horseshoes at family gatherings the tournaments with us.” In fact, the growing up but never imagined he couple has taken their grandson to the would pitch in a world horseshoe last four world tournaments where he has competed at Melvin Jeardoe watches the Junior Cadet and Junior the horseshoe he Boys levels. “He started pitched during practice pitching about six years ago at the National and he has a ball,” Melvin Horseshoe Pitchers Association World said with a grin. Tournament held in The Jeardoe’s have Topeka. established lasting friendships with other horseshoe pitching competitors. “We have a couple from Colorado who is camping right next to us, and at every world tournament we try to camp together,” Melvin explained. “They are all just down-home people like us, but maybe a little more serious though this week,” Ora Lee joked just before she was scheduled to pitch in the tournament.
SEPTEMBER 2015
Ora Lee Jeardoe ranked 11th in the world going into the tournament, pitched her way to second place in the Senior Women’s Championship.
Proudly Representing the Cooperative Employees of:
tournament, let alone serve on the committee that successfully bid the event. “I really didn’t know there were competitions until Howard stumbled into it,” Melvin explained. Howard is Howard Reed, a Rolling Hills Electric Cooperative member, and Melvin’s friend and fellow horseshoe pitcher who learned of competitive horseshoe pitching through a random conversation with a business client. Together, Howard and Melvin established the Republic County Ringers Horseshoe Pitching Club, which annually hosts tournaments between May and September. While Melvin recalled establishing the club 15 years ago, Howard disagreed and said it was 16 years. As the saying goes, “close” only counts in horseshoes and hand grenades. Howard, Melvin and Ora Lee successfully convinced the City of Belleville to install pitching courts, which has helped promote their club’s tournaments, bringing both new and familiar–but always friendly– faces to town. “You don’t meet anyone who’s not nice pitching horseshoes. It’s like being at home. You can just walk up and start a conversation with anybody,” Melvin explained. True to Melvin’s observation and unexpectedly on cue, a competitor from Bonner Springs approached the group and introduced himself. Most likely, another friendship will emerge between competitors in a game that, although played on a world stage, remains as friendly as the family picnic version. KCL
Ark Valley Electric Cooperative Inc DS&O Electric Cooperative Inc Flint Hills Rural Electric Cooperative Inc Leavenworth-Jefferson Electric Cooperative Inc Lyon-Coffey Electric Cooperative Inc Midwest Energy Inc Radiant Electric Cooperative Inc Sunflower Electric Power Corporation Victory Electric Cooperative Assn Inc Western Cooperative Assn Inc Wheatland Electric Cooperative Inc
www.ibew304.org
SEPTEMBER 2015
KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
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newsbriefs A G L A N C E AT
EPA Carbon Emissions Rules On August 3, President Obama and the
Environmental Protection Agency announced rules that will change the future of electric power generation. Dubbed the Clean Power Plan (CPP), the mandate sets a reduction in carbon dioxide emissions from U.S. electricity generation for the year 2030 that is 32 percent below the 2005 level. The Administration asserts the CPP will show the world that the U.S. is a leader in addressing climate change. The CPP requires replacement of a significant amount of the nation’s traditional electricity generation with renewable energy sources, including wind and solar. Renewables currently supply five percent of the nation’s electricity and the CPP aims to boost that to 28 percent of U.S. capacity by 2030. The rule will also force a major shift from coal to natural gas for power generation. In the final rule, EPA’s expected carbon dioxide emission allowances for Kansas were tightened significantly compared to the draft dictum. The first numbers allowed Kansas to emit 1,499 pounds of carbon dioxide per megawatt hour of electricity produced, a 23 percent cut from pre-CPP levels. The CPP’s final rule expects Kansas to do far more, decreasing allowed carbon dioxide emissions to 1,293 pounds per megawatt hour, an 43 percent reduction. Proponents hail the rule as a step to address the perceived impacts of climate change. Skeptics warn of increased rates, plant closures and the potential for brownouts and blackouts until new generation sources can be built and technologies developed to comply with the mandate. There is certainly a chasm related to the cost impact of the rule. The EPA estimates that by 2030, consumers will pay 6 to 7 percent less for electricity, largely due to conservation and increased efficiency requirements. Others such as NERA Economic Consulting, warn of 12 to 22 percent rate increases. The Kansas Corporation Commission estimated the draft CPP would cost the state of Kansas as much as $15 billion,
driving utility rates up by 30 percent over a 13-year period. The KCC has not issued a rate analysis on the final rule as of this writing. Service concerns are highlighted in a report by the Southwest Power Pool, a group charged with reliability and economic dispatch of generators in a 14-state area. The SPP’s analysis of the draft CPP indicated “…significant reliability risks that would threaten many of our customers with possible loss of electric service.” The National Rural Electric Cooperative Association reports that the new regulations may impact reliability with the predicted closure of 111 coal plants and 171 facilities forced to reduce capacity. From the beginning, the CPP has drawn mixed reviews from states, politicians, regulators, and sectors of the utility industry. As of June 30, 2015, 22 state legislatures had introduced legislation to address the pending CPP. While the Kansas Legislature has expressed concern about EPA overreach, Kansas House Bill 2233 authorizes the Secretary of Health and Environment to develop a state plan and, with legislative approval, submit the plan to the EPA. However, the fact that the final rule set a far more stringent allowance for carbon dioxide is causing some Kansas government leaders to re-evaluate compliance options going forward. The CPP will also face significant legal challenges. Opponents believe the EPA has exceeded its authority under the Clean Air Act. Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt has pledged to join 15 other states in filing suit against the final CPP rule. The group sent a letter to the EPA asking them to put the rule on hold or face an emergency injunction to halt implementation of the rule. Kansas has already joined other states in a lawsuit challenging the CPP’s constitutionality. The Clean Power Plan will be challenged by opponents and applauded by proponents. The lawsuits and legal wrangling may take years. Congressional bills may limit or eliminate the effort. It will be important for electric cooperatives to continue to monitor the results. KCL
From the beginning, the CPP has drawn mixed reviews ...
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KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
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Sept. 12
P ony Express 120 Gravel Dash, Marysville
Discover Kansas
B R E N D A S TA G G E N B O R G
YOUR GUIDE TO FALL 2015
A month-by-month guide to the many fun and exciting things you can do when you Discover Kansas from September through December. Sept. 26
Sept. 12
Artist Alley Festival, Chanute
R U T H A N N B O AT W R I G H T
CITY OF MERRIAM
Turkey Creek Car Show, Merriam
Sept. 26
Smoky Hill Museum Street Fair, Salina
G LO RY B E N AC K A
Sept. 11-20
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KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
SEPTEMBER 2015
State Fair Energy Expo–Cooperative High Voltage Demo, Hutchinson
SEPTEMBER SEPT. 4-6 L ittle Balkans Days, Pittsburg. This annual festival celebrates the community’s culture, heritage and history with various events, activities, entertainment and vendors located on Broadway from 4th to 7th streets. 401 N. Broadway, 620-7041903, littlebalkans.com. SEPT. 4-7 W atermelon Festival, Clyde.
P arade, kids events, food, arts and crafts, as well as demolition derby. City of Clyde, 785-243-4303. SEPT. 4 T allgrass Road Show, Hays. A mobile
outreach program that showcases a selection of short films. 407 N. Broadway, Colonial Fox Theatre, 620-235-0622, colonialfox.org.
SEPT. 5-6 D unes Poker Run & Rodeo,
Syracuse. Starts at dusk on Saturday with ATV Rodeo at 1 p.m. (MT) Sunday that includes pole bending, barrel racing and obstacle course events. Participants compete by age bracket. 250 W. River Rd., 620-384-2480, syracuseks.gov/sand-dunes/ upcoming-events-news.
SEPT. 5-7 H ighlights in History, Fort Scott. F eatures talks, tours, demonstrations and living history programs about Fort Scott’s role in the pivotal events of American History. Old Fort Blvd., Fort Scott National Historic Site, 620-223-0310, nps.gov/fosc/index.htm. SEPT. 5-7 L abor Day Celebration, Larned. L iving history activities with presentations from the active military post period. Free admission. 1767 KS Highway 156 Fort Larned National Historic Site, 620285-6911, nps.gov/fols. SEPT. 5-12 F all Wildflower Tours, Canton.
Board the tram for tour of prairie wildflowers and buffalo, or do a self-guided walking tour to view the flowers that are marked. 2565 Pueblo Rd., 620-6284455, cyberkraft.com/Maxwell.
SEPT. 5- OCT. 11 K ansas City Renaissance
Festival, Bonner Springs. Find a variety of entertainment at this 16th century village, with performances, armored jousting, artisan and food booths. Open weekends 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., rain or shine. 633 N. 130th St., Kansas City Renaissance Festival, 913-721-2110, kcrenfest.com.
SEPT. 5 O ld West Cowboy Days, Ottawa.
S addle up for cowboy fun including a barbecue, movies, fashion show, equine crafts and supplies, vendors and demonstrations. 301 S. Hickory, Ottawa Municipal Auditorium, 785-242-1411, visitottawakansas.com. SEPT. 5 T he Goons Concert, Cheney. This benefit concert will fund improvements at Cheney State Park. 16000 N.E. 50th St., East Side Marina Shelter, 316-619-5276, kdwpt.state.ks.us/news/StateParks/Locations/Cheney. SEPT. 6 O ld Settlers’ Day, Russell Springs.
C ome to the “Cow Chip Capital of Kansas” for this celebration that includes a church service, parade, State Cow-Chip Throwing Contest, a noon potluck dinner, and Old Settlers’ Recognition Program. 515 Hilts, 785-751-4242, butterfieldtrailmuseum.org. SEPT. 6 O rchestra on the Oregon Trail,
Marysville. The Topeka Symphony Orchestra and the natural wonder of Alcove Spring will combine as a tribute to a wilderness traversed by the pioneers. An all-day experience with music and events for all ages. Gates open at 1 p.m.; symphony performs at 6 p.m. Dancing and star-gazing follows the concert. 1834 East River Rd., six miles south of Marysville, 844-252-6830, ooot.org. SEPT. 11-12 G reeley Smoke-Off, Greeley. Grab a plate, make a donation and dig into ribs, brisket, chicken, veggies and even desserts cooked on the grill. Burn off the calories with kids’ games and the Larry Schaffer Memorial Coed Softball tournament. 100 W. Brown St., Greeley City Park, 785-448-4304, greeleysmokeoff.com.
SEPT. 11-12 M exican Fiesta, Chanute. Event features an historic celebration of Mexican heritage with authentic Mexican cuisine, traditional dancing and professional entertainment. All are welcome. 3000 S. Santa Fe, Santa Fe Park Fiesta Grounds, 620431-3350, chanutechamber.com. SEPT. 11-17 S ymbols of Sacrifice, Fort Scott. A
program series that highlights American sacrifices. 1 Old Fort Blvd., 620-223-0310, nps.gov/fosc.
SEPT. 11-20 K ansas State Fair, Hutchinson.
Showcases Kansas agriculture, industry and commerce, with a variety of entertainment. Visit the Energy Expo for interactive displays and activities for the children. The Energy Expo is open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. at the Ad Astra Pavilion. 2000 N. Poplar, Kansas State Fairgrounds, 620-669-3600, kansasstatefair.com.
SEPT. 12 A Wild Affair, Garden City. A night under the stars with live music, live and silent auctions and adult beverages served with local restaurants and caterers providing “tastes of Southwest Kansas.” 312 E. Finnup Dr., 620-276-6243, leerichardsonzoo.org. SEPT. 12 P ony Express 120 Gravel Dash, Marysville. Experience the rich history of the Midwest by riding 120 miles of gravel through the same territory and small towns as Pony Express riders did 150 years ago. There’s also a shorter, 70-mile loop. 7th & Broadway, 785-562-3101, visitmarysvilleks.org. SEPT. 12 S unflower Piecemakers Quilt Show, Ottawa. This show has something for everyone, from beginner to expert. There will be more than 100 quilts on display, with vendors, boutique tables, mini quilt auction, and an opportunity quilt. 705 W. 15th St., 785-418-8846, sunflowerpiecemakers.com. SEPT. 13 3 D Archery Tournament, Webber.
3 D archery tournament featuring men’s, women’s and youth divisions. 2446 250 Rd., Lovewell Reservoir, 785-753-4971, kdwp.state.ks.us.
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KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
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Discover Kansas
SEPT. 13 W einer Dog Races, Lindsborg. The
L’borg Wiener Dog Races award ribbons for the top three winners in heats and races. 104 E. Lincoln St., 785-227-2217, visitlindsborg.com.
Barton County Rd., Great Bend Expo Complex, 620792-2401, bigbendbikerally.com. SEPT. 19-20 L ake Scott Catfish Tournament,
gun show offers local gun owners and outdoor enthusiasts a chance to buy, sell and trade guns, supplies, knives, surplus accessories and ammunition. West Fairground Rd., Hays-Ellis County FairgroundsUnrein Building, 785-479-1300.
Scott City. The first ever Lake Scott Catfish Tournament will begin with registration at the Beach House. Event is a collaboration between the Scott City Area Chamber of Commerce, Lake Scott State Park, Friends of Lake Scott State Park, and Scott City Travel and Tourism. Lake Scott, 620-8723525 Ext. 1, SCCC@wbsnet.org.
SEPT. 13-19 C attle Drive to Medicine Lodge,
SEPT. 20 T ri-Wild Road Triathlon, Sylvan
SEPT. 13-14 S . & K Gun Show, Hays. This
Bucklin. This working ranch located near Dodge City allows guests to experience the Old West lifestyle with a cattle drive over the prairie in the Gypsum Hills. Ranch horses are matched to the ability of the rider. Horse, tack, equipment, all meals and lodging included. 2933 CRE, Moore Ranch, 620826-3649, moorelonghornranch.com.
SEPT. 16-20 W alnut Valley Festival, Winfield.
A ttendees come from every state in the union and from many foreign countries to enjoy music and the festival activities, including food vendors and a large juried arts and crafts show. 1105 W. 9th Ave., Winfield Fairgrounds, 620-221-3250, wvfest.com.
SEPT. 17-19 F ree Fair, Kincaid. A mix of small
hometown fun, a huge parade and a large carnival make this a must-see Kansas experience. 100 N. Commercial St., Kincaid City Park and Commercial St., 785-204-1545, kincaidfair.com.
Grove. Registration opens at 7 a.m. and race starts at 8 a.m. with a 500-meter swim followed by a 34-mile ride, then a 10K run through the hilly park roads. #3 State Park Rd., Switchgrass Mountain Bike Trail, 785-483-4000, facebook.com/switchgrasstrail.
SEPT. 25 C itizenship Ceremony, Fort Scott.
R eflect on the privileges of U.S. citizenship as you witness new citizens take the oath of allegiance to their newly adopted country. 1 Old Fort Blvd., 620223-0310, nps.gov/fosc.
SEPT. 25-26 J ammin’ in JC Blues & BBQ Festival, Junction City. Blues and barbecue–it’s a winning combination. The Jammin’ in JC Blues & BBQ Festival brings Texas-Style Blues and a four category barbecue contest to historic downtown Junction City. 6th & Washington St., Heritage Park, 785-238-8069, jammininjc.com.
Garden City. This festival offers attractions such as the 5K gauntlet, free concert, gun show, guitar lick challenge, boxing tournament, barbecue contest, car show and motorcycle rally. 209 Lake Ave., 620-272-1210.
SEPT. 25-26 G reat Grillers Blues and BBQ Contest, Shawnee. Now that the smoke has cleared from last year, the grills will fire up again. In addition to some of the best barbecue in the Midwest, come enjoy activities for the whole community. 11501 W. 57th, Shawnee Town 1929, 913631-5200, shawneegreatgrillers.com.
SEPT. 19 A rt in the Park and Craft Show,
SEPT. 25-27 D ream Ride in the Flint Hills,
SEPT. 19 A rts & Crafts Fair, Hillsboro. The event brings 300 artists from 15 states and 40,000 shoppers to downtown. 120 N. Main, 620-947-3506, hillsboroartsandcraftsfair.org.
SEPT. 25-27 P eace Treaty Pageant, Medicine
SEPT. 18-20 S outhwest Riverless Festival,
Marion. A nnual event in shady, relaxed park atmosphere. 501 East Main, Central Park, 620-3823425, marionks.com.
SEPT. 19 B ig Bend Bike Rally, Great Bend.
otocross riders from all over the country will M converge to compete for huge cash prizes. W.
Cottonwood Falls. Horseback riding in the Flint Hills. Twelve years of wonderful riding throughout Chase County. 215 Broadway, 620-273-6763, grandcentralhotel.com. Lodge. The Treaty of 1867 was the foundation of settlement of the entire Southwest. The Medicine Lodge Peace Treaty re-enactment relives the “Discovery, Exploration, and Settlement” of the Great Plains. Experience a wagon train of covered wagons, stagecoach, horseman and a Longhorn cattle drive. Highway 160 E, Memorial Peace Park, peacetreaty.org. SEPT. 26 A rtist Alley Festival, Chanute.
iscover arts and crafts, food vendors, artists D demonstrations, parade and more in downtown Chanute. 4 E. Main, Downtown, 620-431-0056, mainstreetchanute.com.
SEPT. 26 B ad Boyz Boxing, Garden City.
A mateur boxing at the Finney County Fairgrounds. 209 Lake Ave., 620-521-2055, finneycounty.org.
SEPT. 26 B uddy Bass Tournament, Lawrence. T his tournament will launch from Boat Ramp #3. 798 N. 1415 Rd., 785-393-2144, kdwpt.state.ks.us/ news/State-Parks/Locations/Clinton.
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KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
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SEPT. 26 C ornstock–Anderson County Corn
Festival, Garnett. A festival jam-packed with activities including The Great Kansas Outdoor Fun Show with interactive exhibits and archery, BB gun and Hunter’s Safety demonstrations, “Youth Gone Wild,” challenge tour, the Cornstock Pageant, Corn Dog Doxie Derby weiner dog races, Corn Hole Tournament and much more. 680 North Lake Rd., 785-448-6767, https://accornfest.com.
SEPT. 26 P iotique, Clay Center. Features a Buffalo Bill re-enactor, car show and all day entertainment on the square. Clay Center, 785-6323786, ccmuseum@twinvalley.net. SEPT. 26 O ld Settlers’ Day, Marion. Features
a parade at 11 a.m., followed by food and games in shady Central Park. Clay Center, 620-382-3425, marionks.com.
SEPT. 26 S moky Hill Museum Street Fair,
Salina. O ne-day festival of fun that celebrates the history and heritage of the Smoky Hills region with a downtown parade, historic demonstrators, entertainment, food, chili cook-off and special activities for all. 211 W. Iron Ave., 785-309-5765, smokyhillmuseum.org.
SEPT. 26 Whimmydiddle Arts & Crafts Fair,
Scott City. Named after a wooden toy, the whimmydiddle, the fair is in the open air of Patton Park, with over 200 exhibitors from across the United States showcasing original art, metal working, pottery and crafts in wood, fabric, jewelry, silk and dried flowers. A variety of tempting food concessions entice visitors to eat and take some home. The fair runs from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. Patton Park, 1206 Main, 620-214-0423, whimmydiddle.org.
SEPT. 26-27 F all Festival and Swap Meet,
Meriden. Try homemade apple cider, apple butter, and sorghum. Tour Cottonwood Station, our reproduction living history of an early day Kansas town. Watch demonstrations at the saw mill, flour mill and blacksmith shop. Buy, sell or trade at the Flea Market. Live music Saturday night. On-site camping, modern rest rooms, and concessions. 8275 K-4 Highway, 785-633-9706, meridenthreshers.org.
SEPT. 26-27 K ansas High School and Junior
High School Rodeo, Garden City. The Garden City Rodeo Club will host this sanctioned rodeo. 209 Lake Ave., 620-271-2564.
SEPT. 26-27 S cottish Festival, McPherson.
Scenic Lakeside Park hosts the festival featuring Highland Athletics, Celtic music and dance, Scottish clans, food, children’s activities and a Saturday night concert and Scottish buffet at the McPherson Museum and Arts Foundation. 100 Lakeside Dr., Lakeside Park, 800-324-8022, macfestival.org.
SEPT. 26-27 W ellsville Days, Wellsville. The
opening parade is followed by a craft fair on Main Street, exotic petting zoo, puppet shows, animal competitions, live music, kids zones, and a community potluck and free concert on Sunday featuring “Liverpool” at the Mid America Bank Stage. 411 Main St., 573-280-8109, wellsvilledays.com.
Overbrook. View the local display of Indian artifacts and other collections. Bring your collection to share and trade information. Homemade ice cream and raffle prizes. 600 Shawnee Rd., Appanoose Area Museum auditorium, 785-665-7576. SEPT. 29-OCT. 5 C attle Drive From Medicine
Lodge, Bucklin. Experience the Old West lifestyle by trailing longhorn cows from Medicine Lodge to winter pasture near Mullinville. A chuckwagon hauls the grub, which is cooked in dutch ovens. Relaxing under the stars in a bedroll or in a cowboy teepee wraps up the day. This is honest-to-goodness cowboy life. 2933 CR E. Moore Ranch, Moore Ranch, 620-826-3649, moorelonghornranch.com.
OCTOBER OCT. 2 V olga German Society Oktoberfest,
Hays. H eld in conjunction with Fort Hays State University Homecoming weekend the event has become a traditional celebration of the Volga German Heritage of Ellis County and includes polka music, dancing, and more than 80 booths providing German food, drinks and crafts. 1st & Main, HaysFrontier Park, 785-628-8202, germancapitalofkansas. com; haysoktoberfest.com. For more information about the FHSU Homecoming, contact alumni@ fhsu.edu.
OCT. 2-3 K iwanis BBQ Cook-Off, Hutchinson.
C ool temperatures and hot rods. Smoking hot barbecue and beer tasting. You’re going to love downtown Hutchinson this fall. Competition takes place downtown at George Pyle Park. Check the website periodically for updates. 100 East Ave. B, George Pyle Park, 620-694-2677, downtownhutchinson.com.
OCT. 2-4 M ountain Man Rendezvous,
Canton. Mountain men and women, primitive camps, traders and demonstrators are welcome; flintknappers knap-in. No camp fee. Event is open to the general public and is an excellent field trip for schools and scouts. 2565 Pueblo Rd., 620-628-4455, cyberkraft.com/Maxwell.
OCT. 3 A rt in the Park, Winfield. Featuring
more than 100 juried artists, variety of food booths, live entertainment and demonstrations, and children’s activities. First Saturday in October in Island Park. 300 Main St., Island Park, 620-221-2161, winfieldarts.com.
OCT. 3 B uhler Frolic, Buhler. Various family events will take place all day. For more information, call 620-727-5785. Various locations throughout the city, Downtown, 620-727-5785. OCT. 3 B urnin’ Down Main Cook-Off,
McPherson. Fun, family friendly activities won’t disappoint! Public tasting of the soup and chili runs from noon to 2 p.m. Contests open to everyone. Total prize package of $2,000-plus. 201 N. Main St., 620-241-7430, mcphersonks.org.
OCT. 3 F all Into the Holidaze Craft &
Antique Show, Winfield. First Saturday in October at the Winfield Fairgrounds. Featuring quality craft and antique vendors, door prizes,
Car & Tractor Shows SEPT. 4-7 L abor Day
Celebration, Hoisington. Enjoy a community barbecue, concert, pageants, turtle races, garage sale, golf tournament, demolition derby, car show, dance, 5K run, vendors and one of the largest parades in the state. 123 N. Main St., Hoisington Chamber of Commerce, 620-653-4311, hoisingtonkansas.com.
Oct. 10-11
Tired Iron Show, Larned
SEPT. 5 C olony Day The Tired Iron Show Oct. 10-11 will feature antique tractors Celebration, Colony. Begins and other agricultural equipment and live demonstrations of with a fun run/walk at 7 a.m. wheat threshing, corn shelling and wheat grinding. followed by breakfast and a day to peruse and enjoy vendors and exhibitors, quilt show, crafts, car show, evening music festival. Downtown, children’s pedal tractor pull, parade, pie eating, car show, 785-243-4290. community supper and talent show. 620-852-3007, experiencegarnettks.com. OCT. 2-4 D owntown Rod Run, Hutchinson. Admire 400 beautiful classic and antique cars and trucks, SEPT. 12 T urkey Creek Car Show, Merriam. custom rods, street rods, muscle cars, motorcycles, Over 300 cars, trucks and motorcycles will custom trucks, rat rods, and more. Contact Jim Gruver be on display at one of the most popular at 620-665-5591 or jim@downtownhutch.com. 125 East car shows in the region. Merriam Marketplace, B - City Hall, Main St. from Third St. to Ave. B, 620-665913-403-8999, www.exploremerriam.com. 5591, downtownhutchrodrun.com. SEPT. 11-13 P ower of the Past Antique Engine & Tractor Show, Ottawa. A gathering of gas engine and tractor enthusiasts and a learning experience for many of the younger generation who have not experienced farm life in its heyday. This year features orphan and lesser known tractors and engines. 400 N. Locust St., Forest Park, 785-418-2190, powerofthepast.net. SEPT. 13 W heels & Dreams Car, Truck & Bike
Show, Shawnee. F or anyone looking to show off a classic hot rod, or a new tricked-out car or motorcycle, Downtown Shawnee is the place to be. More than 250 vehicles will be lined up along Johnson Drive and Nieman Road. Downtown, 913-631-6545, shawneekscvb.com.
SEPT. 19-20 O l’ Marais River Run Car Show,
Ottawa. The event begins Friday evening with an open cruise at Forest Park. The show and shine portion runs Saturday and Sunday followed by a 1960s profile cruise in the downtown business district. 400 N. Locust St., Forest Park, 785-242-7544, olmarais.com.
SEPT. 24-27 P ioneer Harvest Fiesta Steam, Gas and Antique Tractor Show, Fort Scott. Tractor show and other festival events including a quilt show, craft fair and musical entertainment. Bean feed for paid attendees Friday evening. Huntington & 21st St., Bourbon County Fairgrounds, 620-224-7761, pioneerharvestfiesta.org. SEPT. 26 F all Festival, La Crosse. Car show featuring
vintage automobiles, pickups, cycles, tractors, and small engines. Enjoy a live D.J. while browsing flea market and craft fair and food vendors, games and “fly-in” demonstrations of remote control airplanes and helicopters. 1st & Main, Grass Park, 785-222-2808, rushcounty.org/events/fallfest.
SEPT. 26 F all Fest and Music Festival,
Concordia. P arade, kids events, food, arts and
OCT. 3 M arion County Lake Chili Cook-
Off, Marion. Chili cook-off with car show and Corn Hole (doubles) pitching tournament. 1 Office Dr., Marion County Park & Lake, 620-382-3240, marioncountyparkandlake.com.
OCT. 3 P ioneer Bluffs Annual Fall Festival and
Hog Roast, Matfield Green. Car show, arts and crafts fair, historical demonstrations, games for the young and young-at-heart, live music, and hog roast with local food are featured. Event ends with fireworks extravaganza. 695 Kansas Highway 177, Pioneer Bluffs, 620-753-3484, pioneerbluffs.org.
OCT. 10 A ntique Engine & Steam Show, Salina. Ag demonstrations, children’s activities, classic tractor pull, vendors, exhibitors and demonstrators (rope making, threshing, corn shelling, hay baling, saw mill). 1100 W. Diamond Dr., 785-825-8473, yesteryearmuseum.org. OCT. 9-10 L ake Garnett Grand Prix Revival, Garnett. Sports car and classic car enthusiasts will gather for a special event that includes laps around a historic race track, car show, autocross, poker run, parade, lunch and awards. 600 N. Lake Rd., Lake Garnett Rd. Course, 785-448-5534, www.lggpr.org. OCT. 9-11 C olumbus Day Festival, Columbus. eld in connection with the Columbus Hot Air Balloon H Regatta. Activities for all ages to enjoy. Entertainment, food, crafts, car and motorcycle show, quilt show, inflatables, parade, antique tractors and machinery. 100 S. Kansas, 620-429-1492, columbusdayballoons.com. OCT. 10-11 T ired Iron Show, Larned.
emonstrations, displays and activities for people D of all ages, including blacksmithing, sawmilling, wheat threshing, anvil shoots, antique tractors and automobiles, kids activities, food and entertainment. Medallion hunt with prize offered. 1349 K-156 Hwy., 620285-2054, santafetrailcenter.org.
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B E C C A H I L L E R , S A N TA F E T R A I L C E N T E R MUSEUM, L ARNED, KS
SEPT. 27 I ndian Arrowhead & Artifacts Show,
Discover Kansas
activities and food, in a festive holiday setting. 1105 W. 9th Ave., Winfield Fairgrounds, 620-218-2395. OCT. 3 F lint Hills Trail Family Fall Ride,
Osawatomie. This ride along a rails-to-trails pathway provides scenic views and a family friendly route. 1000 Main St., Miami County, 913-294-4045, ThinkMiamiCounty.com.
OCT. 3 F un Day, Glasco. Family entertainment
and activities. City Park, 785-243-4303.
OCT. 3 K ansas Barn Sale, Hesston. L oads of
vendors and thousands of shoppers create a fun and cozy setting around the barn. Come early in the day if you want to find the best pickin’s. 2959 Arapaho Rd., 316-283-0984, kansasbarnsale.com.
OCT. 3 L ost Trail CX, Louisburg. This ride starts at the Louisburg Cider Mill and follows a family friendly route. 14730 K-68 Highway, Louisburg Cider Mill, 913-294-4045, ThinkMiamiCounty.com. OCT. 3 O utdoors Kansas for Kids Day, El
Dorado. Get the kids off the couch and into the outdoors to enjoy activities including trap shooting, archery, building a bird house, EMS demonstrations, and fishing derby. 618 N.E. Bluestem Rd., 316-321-7180, kdwpt.state.ks.us/news/State-Parks/Locations/ El-Dorado.
OCT. 3 T he Classic & Antique Fly-In,
Syracuse. Held at the Hamilton County Municipal Air Field, this event showcases both restored vintage war planes and new planes. The Syracuse-Hamilton
County Chamber of Commerce also hosts a hamburger, hot dog and Bratwurst cookout. 1301 N. Main St., 620-384-5835. OCT. 4 A pple Festival, Topeka. Enjoy bierocks,
barbecued turkey legs, sarsaparilla and Green Rivers. And, of course, apples and more apples in caramel, in pies, in fritters, and cider. Watch pioneer skills and crafts, quilting, weaving and spinning, and blacksmithing. Old Prairie Town at Ward-Meade Historic Site hosts the event. 124 N.W. Fillmore St., 785-251-2989, parks.snco.us/Facilities/Facility/ Details/28.
OCT. 4 B ike Run, Cassoday. We welcome you
to our quaint little town, and thank you for your continued support riding through the heart of the Flint Hills. Flint Hills National Scenic Byway, cassodaybikerun.org/home.
OCT. 4 H ell Creek on Wheels Mountain
Bike Race, Sylvan Grove. Races start at noon, registrations accepted up to 11 a.m. The race follows the Switchgrass Mountain Bike Trail located within the Hell Creek Area of Wilson State Park. #3 State Park Rd., Switchgrass Mountain Bike Trail, 785-4834000, facebook.com/switchgrasstrail.
OCT. 8-10 3i Show, Dodge City. The 3i Show is
a salute to industry, implements and irrigation. The show provides an opportunity for exhibitors from all over the world to showcase their agri-business products. Western State Bank Expo, 11333 Highway 283, 620-227-8082, www.3ishow.com.
OCT. 9 H ot Air Balloon Regatta, Columbus.
Twenty hot air balloons will participate in the Friday evening glow, with Hare and Hound races on Saturday and Sunday mornings and Saturday late afternoon, weather permitting. The public may get up close and visit with pilot and crew members. 320 E. Maple, Columbus Industrial Park, 620-429-1492, columbusdayballoons.com. OCT. 9-10 C orn Festival, Oakley. The weekend kicks off with the VIP Corn Cook-Off in Downtown Oakley on Friday. A reception and registration for cornhuskers is at the Buffalo Bill Cultural Center from 3-5 p.m. (cornhusking demonstration). 3083 US Highway 83, 785-671-1000, discoveroakley.com/ visitors/events/kansas-state-cornhusking-contest. OCT. 10 C andlelight Tour, Larned. Annual presentation interprets history and depicts events from actual records of the Fort’s past by candlelight. Reservations are required. 1767 KS Highway 156 Ft. Larned National Historic Site, 620285-6911, nps.gov/fols. OCT. 10 C oronado Heights Run/Walk,
Lindsborg. T his run includes a two-mile walk, 5K and 15K, up and down Coronado Heights, which is about 300 ft. high in the middle of the run. 4200 W. Coronado Heights Rd., 888-227-2227, visitlindsborg.com.
OCT. 10 F all Festival, Haven. Events include
a Chamber breakfast at the Haven Community Building, food, crafts, parade, bike tour, alumni reception, contests, barbecue cook off, street dance and fireworks. Downtown, 620-465-3618.
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SEPTEMBER 2015
OCT. 10 O pen House & Craft Show, Oakley.
irls Day Out, LLC, is an Open House/Craft Show G held twice a year showcasing 75-plus crafters and home-based businesses. Win prizes; concessions on site. 217 Kaler, 785-672-6201.
OCT. 10 T our de Salt Bike Ride, Hutchinson.
R ide your Mountain/Fat Bike 650 feet underground in an active salt mine. This is NOT a race. Follow a guide through dark caverns and tunnels of an active salt mine. Like us on facebook.com/ tourdesalt for updates. 3650 E. Ave. G, 620-6621425, underkansas.org.
OCT. 11 F alun Classic 34-Mile Bike Ride,
Lindsborg. Experience this 34-mile fun bike ride around the beautiful Smoky Valley. 104 E. Lincoln St., 888-227-2227, visitlindsborg.com.
OCT. 16-17 B lues Masters at the Crossroads, Salina. It’s gonna be a hollerin’, shakin’ good time at Blue Heaven Studios. Where, in our converted church sanctuary, the gospel to some, the devil’s music to others–the blues–has its due. This is your year to experience it all. 201 S. 8th St., 785-825-8486, blueheavenstudios.com. OCT. 17 I nternational Lineman’s Rodeo, Bonner Springs. This free event attracts over 5,000 visitors each year to watch linemen from all over the world compete in a variety of tasks. 630 N. 126th St., National Agricultural Center and Hall of Fame, 913-721-1075, aghalloffame.com. OCT. 17 O utdoor Vintage Flea Market, Ottawa. More than 40 dealers come together to bring you a huge choice of unique antiques, vintage and primitives at bargain prices. 109 E. 2nd St., Downtown, 785-242-1411, visitottawakansas.com. OCT. 17 F amily Fest, Partridge. Activities are free and include parade, carnival games for small children, photo booth, petting zoo, banana bike rides, entertainment, raffle and games including “Minute to Win It.” Contests include photography, poetry and different pumpkin food and crafts. Downtown Partridge, Main St., 620-567-2723, partridgecommunity.org. OCT. 17-18 F all Farm Day Tour, Paola. Take your
time, and drive yourself around Miami County visiting some of the local farms. Bring your family and participate in activities, from riding horses to petting alpacas. 6 W. Peoria, 913-294-4335, paolatourism.org.
OCT. 17-18 W estern Kansas Train Show, Hays. hether you’re an avid modeler or a collector of W trains, there will be thousands of trains to view and buy. Steam, diesel, Thomas, passenger trains and modern freight trains will be running on the various layouts. Dealers from across the Midwest will be attending. 1344 Fairground Rd., Ellis County Fairgrounds, 785-623-1519. OCT. 17-18 R epublic Valley Pioneer Festival, Clay Center. Features can-can dancers, the Old Wild West Theater group and a chance to try your fast draw. Clay County Fairgrounds, 785-632-3786, ccmuseum@twinvalley.net.
OCT. 19-24 S traw-vagana!, Luray. ‘Straw-vaganza! is a week-long celebration of wheat weaving and straw crafts, offering workshops for novices as well as experienced plaiters with some of the state’s best straw artists, an exhibition, local tours, and a chance to meet and swap ideas with other straw enthusiasts including plaiters from the Netherlands. djon@ gorhamtel.com, 785-698-2223. OCT. 22-25 H istoric Cemetery Walking Tours,
Garden City. There will be guided historic walking tours of the Valley View Cemetery, including 12-15 gravesites and memorials, plus five encounters with re-enactors portraying figures from Southwest Kansas History. Tickets are sold in advance. 403 S. 4th, 620272-3664, finneycounty.org/history.asp.
firing demonstration, displays and bivouacs, World War I display and demonstrations, and World War II re-enacting, firing demonstrations and displays. 101 S. Hickory, 785-242-3220, visitottawakansas.com. NOV. 7 B loomfield Chili & Vegetable Soup Supper & Bazaar, Meriden. G et a jump-start on your Christmas Shopping and enjoy good food and great fun at this annual chili and soup supper and craft bazaar in the Bloomfield Church on the Threshing Grounds. Food served at 5:30 p.m. with the auction at 7 p.m. Come anytime for soup or chili, and don’t forget a piece of homemade pie. Crafts and baked goods for sale; door prizes. 8275 K-4 Highway, 785-484-3713, meridenthreshers.org. NOV. 7-8 H oliday Open House Weekend, McPherson. Start checking those lists who’s naughty or nice, and make plans to be in McPherson. Experience the tastes, sounds and scents of Christmas as you sample treats at various locations citywide and experience the variety of products available in our local stores. Main St., 620-241-7430, mcphersonks.org.
CLOUD COUNT Y TOURISM
OCT. 18 H ell Creek on Heels Trail Run 5K, 30K, and 50K, Sylvan Grove. Trail run 5K, 30K, and 50K at Switchgrass Mountain Bike Trail at Wilson State Park. Runs start at 9 a.m. Fully supported by aid stations with snacks, water and great volunteers. #3 State Park Rd., Switchgrass Mountain Bike Trail, 785-483-4000, facebook.com/switchgrasstrail.
Pumpkins & Halloween
Join the fun activities, corn pile, games, and scavenger hunts on Oct. 17, 18, and 31 on the grounds of Sisters of St. Joseph Motherhouse near Concordia. SEPT. 25-OCT. 31 K ansas Maze 2015, Buhler. This 4
1/2-acre corn maze offers festive atmosphere, concessions, 24-foot bridge, kids’ courtyard and pumpkin patch. Open weekends. 13209 E. 82nd Ave. (east of Buhler), MartiskoGaddaert Farm, 620-543-3073, kansasmaze.com.
OCT. 24 E pic Ultra Fall Classic 50-Mile Run, Ottawa. Hosted by Epic Ultras, this 50-mile challenge on the Prairie Spirit Rail Trail brings runners from all over the world to see who can achieve the fastest time. This run is from Ottawa to Garnett and back on the beautiful rails-to-trails course. 220 W. 17th St., Prairie Spirit Rail Trail State Park, 785-4485496, prairiespirit100.com.
NOV. 8 T aste of Adventure, Salina. S pend
OCT. 24-25 H eartland Dog Lure Course Field Trial, Lawrence. A nnual field trials held by the Heartland Coursing Association. A course is mapped out with a guided lure for the dogs to chase for the fastest time. 798 N. 1415 Rd., Clinton State Park, 785-379-5430, kdwpt.state.ks.us/news/State-Parks/ Locations/Clinton.
NOV. 10 M arine Corps Birthday Ball, Garden
Renyer’s, Wetmore. Bring the whole family for a full day of fun from pumpkin picking to farmyard foosball. Fortify the family with smoked pulled pork and funnel cakes before tackling the corn and hay mazes. 1160 X6 Rd., 785-866-5712, renyerspumpkinfarm.com.
NOV. 13 V ictory Bells USO Show, Concordia. Show starts at 7 p.m. Brown Grand Theatre, 785-243-2553.
OCT. 2-31 3 rd Street Asylum Haunted House, Bonner Springs. T he haunted house is located in an old 1918 school building in downtown Bonner Springs. It’s scary... creepy...gory...fun...and not for the faint of heart. 200 E. Third. St., 913-706-4521, 3rdstreetasylum.com.
OCT. 30 O ctober Art Walk, Pittsburg.
the evening exploring the unique culture, history, and cuisine of our featured country. The evening includes social time, a self-guided tour of the museum, a delectable dinner and a presentation by our featured expert on the subject. Reservations are required by Nov. 3. 625 N. Hedville Rd., Rolling Hills Zoo, 785-827-9488, rollinghillszoo.org.
City. A celebration of the Marine Corps’ birthday. 1911 E. Kansas Ave., 620-275-1650, clarionhotel.com/ hotel-garden_city-kansas-ks138.
T he Art Walk features food venders, music, art demonstrations, and beautiful work from our local artists. 401 N. Broadway, 620-231-1212, facebook.com/ pittsburgartwalk.
NOV. 14 H omemade Holidays Craft Show, Ottawa. Over 125 booths. Join us for your holiday shopping. 1230 S. Ash, Ottawa Middle School, 785229-8030, visitottawakansas.com.
OCT. 31 D owntown Chili & Soup Festival,
NOV. 21 C hristmas Festival & Parade of
Hutchinson. Join the fun and excitement. Taste the chili and soup then cast your vote for your favorite. Enjoy the music, entertainment and shopping in the downtown area. Main St. from Ave. C to Sixth Ave., Downtown, 620-694-2677.
NOVEMBER NOV. 1 F all Feast, Antonio. An old-fashioned
German meal with galuskies, roast beef, chicken and noodles, dressing, mashed potatoes with gravy and all the trimmings. Craft items, canned goods and holiday gifts available. 697 210th Ave., Our Lady of Help Christians Church, 785-625-5494, germancapitalofkansas.com.
NOV. 6-11 V eterans Day Celebration, Ottawa.
T our the Healing Field of Flags in and around City Park to see more than 500 flags. Parade begins at 10:45 a.m. Saturday at Fifth and Main streets and ends at Forest Park. The event also includes Civil War
Lights, Salina. A family friendly event sure to entertain the young and old alike. Festival begins at 10 a.m. and the Parade of Lights at 6 p.m. 205 W. Ash, 785-825-0535, salinadowntown.com.
NOV. 21 H oliday Parade, Hutchinson. The
perfect event to usher in the holiday season sponsored and organized by Ad Astra Per Aspera Broadcasting. Main St., Ave. B to 11th, Downtown, 620-665-5758.
NOV. 27-28 “ Merry”sville Christmas,
Marysville. The annual Christmas opening with Black Friday specials, plus Santa’s Christmas Parade and the Jingle Run on Saturday. Youth and adults can enter the Gingerbread House Contest at the Lee Dam Center for Fine Art. Carolers and musicians will perform on Saturday. 785-562-3101, www. visitmarysvilleks.org NOV. 28 E vening of Lights Christmas Parade,
SEPT. 26-27 L ouisburg Cider Mill Ciderfest and
Craft Fair, Louisburg. Enjoy the corn maze, pumpkin patch, cider mill tours and vendors. 14730 K-68 Highway, Louisburg Cider Mill, 913-837-5202, ThinkMiamiCounty.com.
SEPT. 26-OCT. 31 F arm Fresh Adventures at
OCT. 10 P umpkin PaZoola, Salina. Welcome the fall at our annual pumpkin-themed festival. Activities throughout the zoo for kids of all ages–including choosing a free pumpkin to take home. 625 N. Hedville Rd., Rolling Hills Zoo, 785-827-9488, rollinghillszoo.org. OCT. 10-11 P ome on the Range Fall Festival, Williamsburg. Fun for the whole family to ride the horse-drawn wagon to pick apples off the trees or pumpkins from the patch. Kids’ games, hands-on antique cider press, Grampa Pokey the balloon clown, fresh-cooked kettle corn, great BBQ and homemade pies. 2050 Idaho Rd., 785-746-5492, pomeontherange.com. OCT. 17 B oo at the Zoo, Garden City. Boo at the
Zoo will take place from 4-9 p.m. Young witches and wizards are issued a souvenir wand to defend the train from the evil “dementors” as they journey through the dark forest. 312 E. Finnup Dr., 620-276-6243, leerichardsonzoo.org.
OCT. 17, 18, 31 P umpkin Patch, Concordia. Fun activities, snacks, drinks, corn pile, games, scavenger hunt and more. Open from 1-5 p.m. on grounds of Sisters of St. Joseph Motherhouse. South of Concordia Community Garden of Hope, 785-243-2113.
Garnett. Enjoy the parade of illuminated floats,
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Discover Kansas marching bands and Santa. Warm yourself with the annual fire department chili and soup supper then bring the children for pictures with Santa after the parade. 4th Ave. and Oak St. Town Square, Town Square, 785-448-6767, garnettchamber.org.
DEC. 4-6 H olidays in Wellsville, Wellsville. J oin us for holidays with a Christmas tree lighting ceremony, craft show, pictures with Santa, live entertainment and a fashion show. On Sunday, take the Holiday Homes Tour from 5 to 8 p.m. 411 Main St., 785-418-2431, wellsvillechamber.com.
DECEMBER
DEC. 4-12 H oliday Happenings, Topeka. Simply pass through the east doors and be whisked away to an enchanting evening you’ll long remember. Enjoy an elegant and delicious candlelight dinner. Call 785-251-2993 for reservations. 124 N.W. Fillmore St., 785-251-2993, parks.snco.us/Facilities/Facility/ Details/28.
DEC. 4 E vening Aglow, Hutchinson. The
greenhouse is aglow with soft light and decorated to look like a winter wonderland. Enjoy your favorite carol or perhaps discover a new one. 6709 W. Highway 61, Stutzmans Greenhouse at Pleasantview, 620-662-0559, stutzmans.com.
DEC. 4-5 C andlelight Tour, Fort Scott. Witness
the magic as 19th Century Fort Scott comes to life by the glow of hundreds of candles. More than 100 costumed re-enactors interpret some of the most important events in our nation’s history. Old Fort Blvd., Fort Scott National Historic Site, 620-223-0310, nps.gov/fosc/index.htm.
DEC. 4-5 C hristmas Tree Lane, Concordia.
The event showcases Christmas trees decorated by local organizations and auctioned off in the evening. A fun and entertaining way to support local organizations. Sisters of St. Joseph Motherhouse Auditorium, 785-243-2113.
DEC. 4-20 D rive-thru Christmas Light Show,
Salina. Fun for the whole family. New exhibits added every year. Drive through the grounds of the Yesteryear Museum to see beautiful holiday displays. 1100 W. Diamond Dr., 785-825-8473, yesteryearmuseum.com.
DEC. 5-6 C .W. Parker Carousel Museum’s
Children’s Small Mall, Leavenworth. Children from 3 to 13 do their own Christmas shopping with the help of elves and ride the 1913 carousel. 320 S. Esplanade, 913-682-1331, firstcitymuseum.org.
DEC. 5 A ntique District Open House, Hutchinson. Browse the antique shops, enjoy refreshments and enter your name for prize drawings. Third St. to 800 S. Main St., 620-664-5811, hutchgov/downtown.com.
DEC. 6 H oliday Homes Tour, Garnett. The
tour features three festively decorated homes, as well as the Garnett Public Library and Walker Art Gallery where homemade refreshments and holiday musical entertainment warm your heart and soul. 125 W. 4th Ave., Garnett Public Library, 785-448-3388, experiencegarnettks.com.
DEC. 11-12 C hristmas Traditions Trolley
Tours, Abilene. Ride the trolley around town, view the lights, learn history about the town and family traditions. Two tours nightly leaving at 6 p.m. and 7 p.m. 201 N.W. Second, 785-263-2231, abilenekansas.org.
DEC. 12 C hristmas Past at Fort Larned,
Larned. Get in the spirit of the season with a visit to Fort Larned. Special events relating to Christmas celebrations at Ft. Larned in days gone by. 1767 KS Highway 156 Fort Larned National Historic Site, 620-285-6911, nps.gov/fols.
DEC. 12 T ails in Tinseltown, Garden
out handmade crafts, baked goods featuring homemade pies, a white elephant sale, door prizes, raffle items, lunch of home-made soups and pies, and Christmas music played throughout the day. 604 6th St., 785-463-5321, wakefieldmuseum.com.
DEC. 5 & 12 S anta Express, Bonner Springs.
DEC. 12-23 D olly HollyDay Tours, Fort
DEC. 5-6 F olk Art Festival, Liberal. Open 10 a.m.
DEC. 13 V intage Homes Tour, Leavenworth.
J oin Santa Claus in the train depot. Ride the Union Pacific train and take in Christmas decorations on the farm. Have a cookie or two, and make sure Santa knows exactly what you want for Christmas. 630 N. 126th St., National Agricultural Center and Hall of Fame, 913-721-1075, aghalloffame.com. to 5 p.m. Saturday and noon to 5 p.m. on Sunday, this event showcases artists and handcrafted items from many different states as well as baked goods and canned items. It is a great place to find that unique Christmas gift and handmade Christmas decorations. 810 Stadium Ave., Seward County Activity Center, 620-624-8534.
DEC. 5-6 H omes for the Holiday Tour &
Stocking Stuffer Craft Show, Fort Scott. The Homes Tour will include festive holiday tours of up to four homes. Craft Show also features a barbecue luncheon. 231 E. Wall St., Fort Scott Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Information Center, 620-223-3566, fortscott.com.
DEC. 5-6 H omes for the Holidays Tour,
Abilene. Each home is unique and charming in its own way and decorated delightfully for the holiday. 201 N.W. Second, Various Homes, 785-263-2231, abilenekansas.org.
KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
will have a festive time decorating their own giant sugar cookie, enjoying holiday music, and visiting with Santa. There will also be a special story time, and a chance to write a letter to Santa and drop it in his mailbox. Reservations are required by Dec. 1. 625 N. Hedville Rd., Rolling Hills Wildlife Museum, 785-827-9488, rollinghillszoo.org.
City. Friends of Lee Richardson Zoo’s “Tails in Tinseltown” will take place from 9 a.m. to noon. This event includes a meet-and-greet with Santa Claus, Christmas train rides, children’s crafts and animal encounters. Admission is $5 in advance or $10 at the door. 310 N. 6th, 620-276-6243, gardencity.org.
DEC. 5 C hristmas Bazaar, Wakefield. Check
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DEC. 6 C ookies with Santa, Salina. Kids
SEPTEMBER 2015
Scott. Join in the tradition of this evening trolley tour of the homes and neighborhoods joyously lighted for the holiday season. Tours will be transported on the city shuttle. 231 E. Wall St., Fort Scott Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Information Center, 620-223-3566, fortscott.com. A n annual Leavenworth Christmas tradition. Tour vintage homes in Leavenworth, the “First City of Kansas.” 1128 5th Ave., 913-682-7759, leavenworthhistory.org.
DEC. 18-19 F irst Infantry Division Band
Holiday Concert, Junction City. The First Infantry Division Band will captivate you at this holiday concert full of jolly classics and the traditional sounds of the Christmas season. Free event, however tickets must be reserved in advance. 135 W. 7th St., 785-238-3906, jcoperahouse.org.
DEC. 19 H yde Park Luminaries, Hutchinson. yde Park will be aglow with 17,000 Christmas H luminaries lining the streets and sidewalks. The festivities also include hayrack rides and carolers. If you look closely, you may see Santa, too. Main to Monroe and 18th to 23rd, Hyde Park, 620-662-1517.
Back to the Basics– Public Square Principles BY A N G I E TAT RO
Angie Tatro
Giving of your time, talent and treasure is key to community success.
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If I had to choose one guiding principle that reflects the work of Public Square Communities Inc. it would be Positive Conversations Change the World. For quite some time, I have realized our society has had a significant shift away from positive conversations. Is it a symptom of the social media frenzy? Is it the deterioration of the family unit? Is it the lack of leaders modeling the way as they address tough issues? Is it general lethargy given personal stress and burdens intensified by a lack of hope, financial distress or overscheduling? As a colleague of Public Square, I have witnessed how our model helps shift this downward spiral for communities. I’d ask you to consider the following principles and apply them to your life, your community. How might a change in your thinking or in your actions move you and those around you toward positive change? ffConvene & Listen to all Voices. By opening up our conversations to diverse and unusual voices, perspectives not before heard may result in solutions. At times, personally and in our communities, we rely on the same people for input. Try going outside the convenience of that comfort zone. You just might be enlightened. ffEngage Lots of People in Lots of Discussions. We emphasize convening diverse voices, whether it’s during our interview phase or when recruiting others to serve in positions on our steering committee and action teams. Additionally, an element of our model is the Community Conversation in which communities invite one and all to a public, open and inclusive conversation experience. This allows voices to be heard in a constructive, forward focused, solutionbased environment. Remember, Positive Conversations Change the World. ffInclusion of Government, Education, Social
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Services and Business Sectors. Framing, prioritizing and solving community issues require the perspective of all four primary sectors. These four sectors make up the sides of the traditional pubic square. Each has a community role and function, and each has a slightly different stake in the success of the community. ffWork from Strengths to Address Weaknesses. In each of us and in each of our communities we have strengths and assets. Identify them and examine how they can be used to address the challenges and issues preventing community progress. ffFoster Relationships. We cannot do it alone, folks! Build relationships–locally and regionally. Create mutual benefit, be open to feedback and provide feedback to forge better and stronger collaborations and partnerships. ffBuild a Culture of Investment. Community investment resonates with more of us rather than charity or subsidy. Giving of your time, talent and treasure is key to community success. We give to what we believe in, what we are passionate about. Is your community worth it? ffListen, Convene, & Follow Through. It isn’t enough to bring people together, to share and listen. The key ingredient is following through. Taking action. Putting ideas and concepts into place, not just talking about it. Frame new approaches to problems or opportunities as experiments. These principles are the backbone of the Public Square Communities’ model. Applying them in your community will result in positive change. For assistance in your community, visit publicsquarecommunities.com. Angie Tatro is a Public Square Communities Colleague and Executive Director of Central Kansas Community Foundation.
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C O O K ’ S L I B R A RY
Get to Know Others on a Meaningful Level When I applied for a writer’s fellowship recently, I had to update my résumé
Patsy Terrell
to include with the application. As I looked at it with fresh eyes, it occurred to me how little my résumé tells anyone about who I am. It’s just a list of job titles/duties. If those are the most interesting things about me, I’ve failed at life. And, to be fair, I’ve had some really cool jobs. I’m thankful. I’ve never had a job where I was bored. I worked at radio and television stations and at the Cosmosphere. I ran a non-profit for a few years, and had a string of unusual jobs when I was in college, including videotaping horses at Keeneland’s yearling sale. There were interesting and fun experiences at work, but there’s more to me than what I’ve done to make money. How did a list of job titles ever become the way we judge people? It is so limited. To be honest, it’s not just in work situations where what we do for a living is of such interest to other people. In some parts of the world, it’s considered really rude to ask someone what they do for a living. It’s similar to being asked how much money someone makes here. But here those words flow out of our mouths so casually, as if it’s the most important thing we could possibly know about another human being.
Crockpot Fajitas ff 1/2 cup bottled lime juice ff 1/2 tsp. oregano ff 1/2 tsp. pepper ff 1 lb. boneless skinless
breast tenderloins
ff 2 cloves garlic, minced ff 1 (10 oz.) package frozen
BY PAT SY T E R R E L L
Ask me who I am. Ask me what I care about. Ask me when I last had my breath catch in my throat. Ask me about the last thing I created. Ask me what I know to be true. Ask me about the last really deep conversation I had. I guarantee you they’re all more interesting than the fact that I was a DJ in 1983. It is as if we are trying desperately to not ever get to know anyone on a meaningful level. I can honestly say no one has ever asked me any of those things, not even in private conversation. But, someone asks at least once a week what I do for a living. There’s something terribly wrong with that. Connections with our fellow humans are all that matter in the end. How will we ever build them if we can’t ask and answer questions of real importance? I don’t think the wisdom anyone wants to leave behind is a list of job titles. Our cookbook this month is “My Family Meal Planner Light,” by Lindsay Siebert, someone who has an interesting job herself. Four meals are planned per week, for 52 weeks. She includes the meals, recipes, nutritional information and even a weekly grocery list. Each meal is under 500 calories. Some recipes are heart healthy and some are diabetic friendly. At least one meal each week is a crockpot meal. Lindsay, who is from Manhattan, KS, created the meal planner after helping her sister, a mom of four children, plan dinner menus. Lindsay ended up making a year’s worth of menus, emailed her friends to see if they were interested in them, and she sold 50 planners that first day. KCL
pepper strips ff 6 flour tortillas
Combine lime juice, seasonings and chicken in a crockpot. Cook on low 6-8 hours or high 3-4 hours. Add peppers 20 minutes prior to serving. (If you forget to put the peppers in the crockpot before serving, you can heat them in the microwave instead.) Serve on tortillas. Makes 6 servings.
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Order your copy online at www.myfamilymealplanner.com. She has multiple books so if this one doesn’t appeal to you, check out the other options. The cost of each book is $25.
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Jerry’s Favorite Dip
Kansas Sunflower Cookie
KANS AS COUNTRY LIVING, SEPTEMBER 2015
Sen. Jerry Moran’s dip is served with raw veggies or white corn chips.
KANS AS COUNTRY LIVING, SEPTEMBER 2015
This recipe won the Kansas State Fair Governors Cookie Jar award.
Butter Pecan Fudge
Bar-B-Que Beef Stuffed Peppers
KAN S AS COU N T RY L IVIN G, S E PT E M B E R 201 5
If you like pecans, you will love this Kansas State Fair First Place winner.
KAN S AS COU N T RY L IVIN G, S E PT E M B E R 201 5
Use your garden produce to make this Kansas State Fair First Place recipe.
Bar-B-Que Beef Stuffed Peppers
ff 2 cups unsalted sunflower kernels ff 1 cup granulated sugar ff 3 cups all-purpose flour ff 1/3 cup honey ff 1 tsp. baking soda ff 3 large eggs ff 1/2 tsp. salt ff 1 tsp. pure vanilla extract ff 4 oz. white chocolate, chopped into 1/4-inch pieces ff 6 oz. unsalted butter, cut into 1-oz. pieces Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Toast sunflower kernels on baking sheet for 10 minutes in preheated oven. Cool to room temperature. Sift flour, baking soda and salt onto large piece of waxed paper and set aside. Melt white chocolate in a double broiler at medium heat, using a rubber spatula to stir for 3-4 minutes until melted; place in a bowl until needed. Place butter, sugar and honey in a mixing bowl and mix on medium for 4 minutes. Scrape sides of bowl and mix an additional 4 minutes. Add eggs one at a time and continue beating 1 minute; add vanilla and beat 1 more minute. Add melted white chocolate and mix 1 minute. Place mixer on low speed and gradually add dry ingredients followed by the sunflower kernels; mix 1 minute. Finish blending by hand if needed. Place heaping tablespoons of dough on nonstick baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes. Cool to room temperature on baking sheet.
Kansas Sunflower Cookie
Jerry’s Favorite Dip than 1/2 of the large jar)
ff 1 pint mayonnaise (a little more
but a little bit of the large carton)
ff 1 pint small curd cottage cheese (all
ing mix (not the dip mix)
ff 1 envelope of ranch salad dress-
TO PURCHASE A KANS AS STATE FAI R COOKB OOK , VI SIT WWW.FAIRGROUNDSFOUNDATION.COM.
KAY BABCOCK , HUTCH INSO N, KANS AS STATE FA IR GOVERNOR’S CO OKIE JAR FI RST PL AC E WINNER
ff 1 cup uncooked brown, whole grain rice ff 4 medium red or green peppers ff 1 cup water ff 1/2 cup thick and chunky salsa ff 1 lb. ground beef ff 1/2 cup barbecue sauce ff 1 can (11 oz.) Mexicorn whole ff 1/2 cup green onions, chopped ff Dash of hot sauce to taste kernel corn with peppers ff 1 egg, beaten ff 1 1/2 cups Monterey jack cheese, shredded Heat oven to 375 degrees. Cook rice in water as directed on package. Cook ground beef over medium heat, stirring frequently until thoroughly cooked. Sauté 1/4 cup of the green onions. Drain hamburger and onions. Add corn, egg, sauces and hot sauce. Mix well. Stir in cooked rice and 1 cup of cheese. Cut bell peppers in half lengthwise; remove seeds and membrane. Place cut side up in ungreased 9x13-inch baking dish. Spoon about 3/4 cup mixture into each pepper half, mounding as necessary. Top with 2 tbs. salsa. Cover tightly with foil. Bake 35-40 minutes or until peppers are crisp-tender. Uncover; sprinkle with remaining cheese and onions. Bake uncovered 5-10 minutes longer or until cheese melts.
T Y H OL L , VAL L E Y CE NTER , KANS AS STATE FAIR FIRST PL ACE RECIPE
ff 1/8 tsp. salt ff 1 tsp. vanilla extract ff 2 cups confectioner’s sugar ff 1 cup pecans, chopped
TO PU RCH AS E A KAN S AS STAT E FAIR COOKBOOK , VISIT WWW.FAIRGROUNDSFOUNDATION.COM.
Butter Pecan Fudge ff 1/2 cup butter ff 1/2 cup sugar ff 1/2 cup packed brown sugar ff 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
Stir together all the ingredients and let sit in the refrigerator OVERNIGHT.
TO PURCHASE A KANS AS STATE FAIR CO OKB OOK , VISIT WWW.FAIRGROUNDSFO UNDATI ON.COM.
SENATOR JER RY MO RAN, M ANHAT TAN, KA NS A S STATE FA IR AWARD WI NNING RECI PES
Serve with raw veggies or white corn chips.
S H IRL E Y DIN GL E R , E MP ORIA , KANS AS STATE FAIR FIRST PL ACE WINNER
In a heavy saucepan, combine butter, sugar, brown sugar, cream and salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Boil for 5 minutes, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla. Stir in confectioner’s sugar until smooth. Stir in pecans. Spread into a buttered 8-inch square dish to cool. Cut into squares.
TO PU RCH AS E A KAN S AS STAT E FAIR COOKBOOK , VISIT WWW.FAIRGROUNDSFOUNDATION.COM.
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